Colombia Considers Banning Conversion Therapy Amid Concerns About Psychological Harm
Juan Viana experienced a supportive Christian community in Bogotá during his childhood. However, this support shifted dramatically when he came out as gay at 18. He recounted that his family sent him to a center for conversion therapy, following a psychologist’s advice. Viana believed homosexuality was characterized as a disease at this center, supposedly influenced by demonic forces. His experience became a nightmare, featuring severe mental and physical distress.
Colombia’s Move to Ban Conversion Therapy
Colombia is now contemplating banning conversion therapy due to its psychological impact on individuals. According to the government’s Ombudsman’s Office, one in five LGBTQ individuals in Colombia have faced such practices. A bill is currently under deliberation in Congress to outlaw conversion therapy.
Conversion Therapy Practices
Rights organizations highlight that unlicensed clinics in Colombia offer therapies claiming to cure homosexuality, bisexuality, and transgender identities. These clinics employ extreme methods like humiliation, food deprivation, and electroshocks. Notably, the World Health Organization delisted homosexuality as a mental illness in 1990.
Previous Legislative Efforts and Opposition
The proposed ban on conversion therapy is not Colombia’s first attempt. Previous ones faced defeat due to conservative and religious opposition. These groups fear that prohibition could lead to legal repercussions against parents and religious leaders. They argue it infringes on family autonomy.
International Context
According to ILGA-World, at least 17 countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Spain, and Vietnam, are working towards outlawing conversion therapy nationwide. Despite challenges, LGBTQ advocates in Colombia remain hopeful about passing the current bill.
Current Legislation Developments
The bill received initial approval in Congress in April. Its supporters come from various political parties. However, it needs to pass two more readings before next year’s elections to become law. Carolina Giraldo, a center-left Green Alliance lawmaker, supports the bill, emphasizing the right to personal liberty and identity.
Advocates for Change
Activists like Danne Belmont of GAAT in Bogotá advocate for the bill, urging greater acceptance of sexual orientation and gender identity. The revised legislation appeals to families, promoting understanding and love.
Colombia’s Bishop’s Conference clerics and lawmakers argue that the bill aligns with religious freedom. However, responses from the Evangelical Confederation remain unreceived.
Survivors’ Stories and Advocacy
Individuals like Viana share their conversion therapy experiences to raise awareness about its impact. A national network, formed in May, allows over 50 conversion therapy survivors to share their experiences and support others through social media.
Personal transformation stories, such as that of David Zuluaga, reveal psychological trauma and social isolation faced during childhood. Activists like Zuluaga advocate for a shift in societal perception, urging shame on those who perpetuate these harmful practices.
Survivors aim to spread awareness, transforming fear into empowerment, and advocating for respect and equality.
